NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 4: World Series MVP Hideki Matsui #55 of the New York Yankees celebrates with the MVP trophy after their 7-3 win against the Philadelphia Phillies in Game Six of the 2009 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium on November 4, 2009 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by David J. Phillip-Pool/Getty Images)

Hideki Matsui remains at the top of the A's lengthy list of possibilities to fill the designated-hitter spot, but The Chronicle learned Tuesday that obtaining Vladimir Guerrero has become a more viable possibility than previously thought.

The A's had put in a call about Guerrero early in the process, but it was thought he would return to Texas; indications were that though Guerrero, 35, might consider a one-year deal from the Rangers, he'd want three years elsewhere. Guerrero, however, is now willing to talk to all four AL West teams about a one-year contract with an option, according to a major-league source.

Such terms would pique the A's interest, but two sources within the Oakland organization cautioned that the team is exploring all options and will not rush any decision.

Matsui's agent, Arn Tellem, confirmed that other teams are interested besides the A's; those clubs are believed to include Seattle, Baltimore and, if Guerrero leaves, Texas. Tellem described Matsui's priorities as playing time and the quality of the team.

DH-first baseman Nick Johnson, 32, is also on the list, and his agent, Rex Gary, said that Johnson is working out twice a day in Phoenix and he has recovered fully from wrist surgery.

Matsui is a particularly intriguing possibility because of his enormous popularity in Japan, where all his games are on television. Any team that signs him would enjoy an instant uptick in visibility in Japan and in the local Asian community.

According to Angels vice president of communications Tim Mead, the team added seven figures in corporate sponsorship last season by signing Matsui. Mead called Matsui's presence - and that of the dozens of Japanese journalists who follow him - "a great experience. I can't say enough good things."

Former Yankees teammate Gary Sheffield said Matsui, 36, is a consummate professional and would be a valuable addition for any team, particularly one with young players who could learn from him.

"He was the best," Sheffield said. "I know his work ethic, and he's not slowing down at all. He's got a year of being a DH under his belt, so he'll be better at that role. And Matsui will always make the guy hitting in front of him better, and the guy hitting behind him."

Asked in general about the potential benefits of signing any big-name Japanese player, A's owner Lew Wolff said via e-mail, "I believe a Japanese super player would add value beyond his on-field skills, especially in the Bay Area and especially in a modern and exciting venue."

The A's are still waiting for baseball's stadium committee to release its findings. Commissioner Bud Selig told The Chronicle that there would be no news Tuesday and that he had nothing more to say about the matter. Another baseball official said that no announcement is imminent.